Great Books About Power

Every so often, a political figure enters our World and never leaves. Years pass, yet they stay part of our lives. Worse still, our kids learn about them at school making us feel old!
Here are some examples and a few books you might enjoy: -

Most people have heard of Che Guevara. His iconic image appears on T-shirts and posters everywhere. But what do we know about him? This book, plus Reminiscences of the Cuban Revolutionary War, and The Bolivian Diary detail his mission as a guerrilla and freedom fighter alongside Fidel and Raul Castro. His journey to fame begins in 1952 when he sets off with his friend Alberto Granado on a motorbike journey, a journey that will change the world.

In 1980 Lech Walesa encouraged Polish shipyard workers to strike for extra pay and rights. He formed the movement Solidarity and later became the first elected President of Poland. The Road to Democracy (Rebecca Steffof) details these extraordinary events which provided hope and inspiration for many countries in the Eastern Bloc. The Struggle and the Triumph update us on Walesa’s recent years, the goals he has achieved and his visions for the future.

Readers of a certain age will remember the day Nelson Mandela walked free from jail yet at that time, little was known about him. A Long Walk to Freedom tells us all we need to know. It is the dramatic story of Mr. Mandela’s remarkable life and achievements. An epic tale of hardship, strength, and courage it recounts the life of one of the World’s most controversial leaders.

An article about books on power would be incomplete without a reference to John F. Kennedy. Assassinated in November 1963 by Lee Harvey Oswald, JFK remains a fascinating figure. This book looks at his effect on the media, public, and presidents of the United States over the last fifty years. The subject of many conspiracy theories, JFK is one of the most discussed figures today. The Kennedy Half-Century brings a fresh insight into his life and events leading up to his death.

Margaret Thatcher, or The Iron Lady as she was often known, is the subject of much debate. Like her or loathe her, she cannot be ignored. Her contribution to British politics is outstanding. As the United Kingdom’s first female prime minister, she is also UK’s longest- serving PM (1979 – 1990) of the twentieth century. This book charts her progress, detailing her upbringing as a grocer’s daughter, through her rise to fame and highlighting her political career. Although her policies outraged many voters, respect for her has not diminished, and her ability to stand by her resolutions is admirable.

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